PLANS to build nine flats in a Hampshire town have been thrown out.

Templeton Stockbridge Ltd lodged an appeal after an application to a site in Rumbridge Street, Totton, was rejected by New Forest District Council.

But government-appointed planning inspector Robert Parker has upheld the council’s decision.

The applicants had applied for planning permission to demolish an existing building and replace it with a commercial unit and nine flats.

Mr Parker said the site was currently occupied by a modest two-storey building which was vacant and in a state of disrepair.

He added: “Rumbridge Street has a distinctive village feel. The street is characterised by small-scale buildings. There are some three-storey properties and other buildings with accommodation in the roof but these are in the minority.”

Mr Parker said the proposed development would be bulkier than many of the traditional properties in Rumbridge Street.

He added: “I do not consider that the bulk and massing of building being proposed is appropriate for this location.”